You typically start getting Pap smears at age 21 , regardless of when you become sexually active, and then repeat them at regular intervals if results are normal.

What age do you get a Pap smear?

Quick Scoop

  • Most guidelines say: First Pap smear at 21 for anyone with a cervix.
  • Ages 21–29 : usually every 3 years if results are normal.
  • Ages 30–65 : every 3 years with Pap alone, or every 5 years if combined with HPV testing (co‑testing), assuming normal results.
  • Under 21 : Pap smears are not routinely recommended if you’re otherwise low‑risk, even if you’re sexually active.
  • Over 65 : many people can stop if they’ve had a long history of normal tests, but this is a decision to make with a clinician.

Mini breakdown by age

  • Younger than 21
    • Routine Pap smears are not needed because cervical cancer is very rare in this age group and minor cell changes often clear on their own.
  • 21 to 29 years
    • Start Pap smears at 21 , then usually every 3 years if results stay normal.
  • 30 to 65 years
    • Options often include:
      • Pap smear every 3 years , or
      • High‑risk HPV test alone every 5 years , or
      • Pap + HPV co‑test every 5 years , depending on local guidelines and your risk.
  • Older than 65
    • Many people can stop screening if they’ve had adequate negative tests and no history of serious cervical changes, but recommendations vary by history and country.

Why the starting age is 21

Pap smears check for abnormal cells on the cervix that could turn into cervical cancer, often related to persistent high‑risk HPV infection.

Starting at 21 balances catching changes early while avoiding unnecessary procedures on very young people whose cervical cells often change and heal naturally.

Quick FAQ style notes

  1. Do I need a Pap smear if I’m sexually active but under 21?
    • In most guidelines, no , unless you have special high‑risk factors your clinician is concerned about.
  1. Is a Pap smear the same as a pelvic exam?
    • A Pap smear is done during a pelvic exam but is specifically the sample taken from the cervix to look for abnormal cells.
  1. Does everyone with a cervix need one?
    • Most people with a cervix aged 21–65 need regular screening, but timing and when to stop depend on medical history, surgery (like hysterectomy), and risk factors.

TL;DR: You usually start Pap smears at 21 and repeat them every 3 years (or on a slightly different schedule after 30), as long as results are normal.

Bottom note: Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.